Following the Snow Country Trail from Gunma to Niigata, I managed to snag a sweet campsite with spectacular views down into the valley, only about an hour short of the pass. From this point the trail levels off as it passes one of the Mountain huts and its all downhill, literally. On the Niigata side, the SNC criss-crosses its way down into the valley. At this point in the season, the Niigata side was blooming with summer flowers. As I descended into the lush green native beech forests I could see the neighboring peak of Makihata, rising over the valley.
- 1 min read
Leaving Gunma via the SCT
Snow Country Trail
By C. Rio
Community writer
Not a bad way to wake up (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
Looking through the haze (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
Passing the pass (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
The other side (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
Shrine on the other side (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
On the Niigata side (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
Summer flowers (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Kamenoi Hotel Aso: A Grand Nature Resort in Aso
Kumamoto - Sponsored -
2Exploring Tokyo’s Food Culture
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3An All-Inclusive Osaka Escape With KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
Osaka - Sponsored -
4Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
5Explore Ishigaki From Town to Shore on a Two-Hotel Escape
Okinawa - Sponsored -
6Ultimate Fukuoka Food Guide: Hakata Ramen, Yatai Culture & Beyond
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
7Nara Beyond the Crowds With Two Peaceful Retreats
Nara - Sponsored -
8Shopping in Ginza: 10 Unexpected Finds at Matsuya Ginza
Tokyo - Sponsored -
9Nature, Art, and Culture Along an Ancient Route
Culture - Sponsored -
10A Spring and Summer Guide to Lake Tazawa, Complete with the Perfect Stay
Akita - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Guide to Suica Cards in Japan
Transportation -
3Akishinodera Temple
Nara -
4Tax-free Shopping in Japan: 2026 Changes
Planning -
5The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6Punch the Monkey: Japan's Viral Baby Macaque
Chiba -
7May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
9Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
10Japanese Urban Legends
Culture